Elham Valley Vineyard – one of Kent’s oldest vineyards and the only one managed solely by a charity – has unveiled two new releases: its 2024 Sparkling Cuvée and 2025 Dry White. Both wines were brought to life by The Fifth Trust, whose volunteers and students (adults with learning disabilities) help to care for the vines and harvest the fruit.
The 2024 Sparkling Cuvée is drawn from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Seyval Blanc. Vinified less than five miles from the vineyard by local producer Defined Wine, it keeps the journey from vine to bottle intentionally low impact. Pale in colour and bright in profile, the cuvée delivers green apple and lemon with a hint of pear. Student Elliot, who helped in the vineyard, said: “My favourite memory is working on the vines.” Every year the vines are hand-harvested by The Fifth Trust team, students and volunteers.
2024 Sparkling Cuvée
- 72% Chardonnay; 20% Pinot Noir;
8% Seyval Blanc - ABV: 12%
- Acidity: 14.0 g/L
- pH: 2.95
Released alongside the sparkling wine, Elham Valley Vineyard’s 2025 Dry White comes from a record-breaking harvest and takes a lighter, characteristically English approach. The blend combines crisp apple and citrus flavours with notes of softer summer fruits. Another Fifth Trust student, Sam, added: “Working at the vineyard makes me feel special” – a reminder of just how meaningful these hands-on opportunities can be.
2025 Dry White
- 56% Seyval Blanc; 44% Pinot Noir
- ABV: 11.3%
- Acidity: 11.9 g/L
- pH: 3.05
All proceeds from Elham Valley Vineyard wine sales support more than 180 adults with learning disabilities. Both wines are available via The Fifth Trust and from the Vineyard Garden Centre and Café, priced at £25 (2024 Sparkling Cuvée) and £15 (2025 Dry White).
